Wallace High School secured a landmark achievement at the Affidea Stadium, lifting the Medallion Shield as outright winners for the very first time after edging out Sullivan Upper School 19–17 in a gripping contest that kept both supporters and players on edge until the final whistle. It was a day that will long be remembered in our school’s sporting history, marking the culmination of a determined and disciplined season.
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A Season Defined by Momentum and Self‑Belief
The route to the final showcased our consistency and growing confidence throughout the early stages of the competition. Our knockout campaign began with a commanding victory over Larne Grammar, followed by a composed defensive performance that earned us a shutout against Omagh Academy. In our semi‑final clash at Rainey Endowed, the team demonstrated exceptional resilience, edging out Coleraine Grammar in a tight encounter that tested players nerve and togetherness.
These performances reflected a squad that had matured throughout the season, blending controlled structure with an ability to adapt under pressure — traits that would become vital in the final.
Sullivan Start Strong
The final opened with Sullivan Upper striking quickly, crossing for an early converted try. Their momentum continued with a well‑struck penalty that extended their advantage. However, we slowly began to dictate the tempo. Our forward pack gained ground, the defensive line tightened, and we finished the half as the team applying all the pressure, even though the scoreboard still leaned in Sullivan’s favour.
Despite the early setback, we walked into the break with a sense that the tide was turning.
Wallace Turn the Match
After the restart, we wasted no time making our presence felt. Sustained attacking pressure culminated in Zach Gordon finishing off a well‑constructed team movement to bring us onto the scoreboard. We doubled our impact moments later when super sub Dylan Moreland darted over, capitalising on sharp handling and intelligent running lines. Ollie May McCombe, showing admirable control, added the conversion to push us firmly into contention.
As the match entered its final stretch, Jacob Dumigan delivered a crucial third try, capping off another cohesive passage of play. McCombe again struck cleanly from the tee, extending our advantage to 19–10 and leaving Sullivan with a mountain to climb.
A Tense Final Chapter
But the drama was far from over. Sullivan regrouped and clawed their way back with a late try that narrowed the score to 19–17. The tension escalated further when we were reduced to fourteen men after Ben Gilmore was shown a yellow card with several minutes left on the clock.
What followed was a heroic defensive display. Phase after phase, Wallace players held their shape, tackled bravely, and refused to let Sullivan find the space they needed. A vital penalty win deep in Sullivan territory allowed us to regain control — and moments later, the referee signaled full time. Wallace players and supporters erupted as the reality set in: the Medallion Shield was ours, outright, for the first time in school history.
Fittingly, Ollie May McCombe was named Player of the Match for his leadership, accuracy of kicking, and composure under pressure.
Coaches Reflect on a Breakthrough Achievement
Director of Rugby, Mr. D. Suffern, expressed immense pride in the team’s historic milestone:
“This squad has set new standards for themselves all year. Their commitment, their discipline, and their refusal to back down in the toughest moments have been outstanding. They’ve earned every bit of this success.”
Coach Mr. O. McIlmurray highlighted the character shown in the decisive final minutes:
“The determination they displayed, especially when down a player, speaks volumes about their spirit. They’ve worked incredibly hard for this, and they deserve to celebrate a truly memorable win. We want to thank all players, supporters, sponsors, parents and fellow coaches for their amazing support throughout this incredible season.”
A big thank you to Mr D Finney and Year 12 pupil, Daniel McLeese, for capturing this amazing day with their superb photographs and film footage.
